LPAC Statement on Orlando Tragedy and Plans for Levity & Justice

LPAC Statement on Orlando Tragedy and Plans for Levity & Justice

Posted on: June 13th, 2016 by teamlpac

LPAC TO CONTINUE WITH PLANS TO HOST LEVITY & JUSTICE FOR ALL JUNE 16th IN NEW YORK CITYThis gathering of the LGBTQ community will provide a public opportunity to show solidarity and resilience in light of Orlando tragedy

Washington, DC (June 13, 2016) — In the wake of this weekend’s tragedy in Orlando, LPAC’s Executive Director, Beth Shipp, issued this statement regarding the organization’s June 16th gathering of over 1,000 LGBTQ Americans and allies in New York City:

“This weekend, our chosen family in Orlando, Florida, suffered unimaginable tragedy. Hate, homophobia, and horror stole the lives of too many of our brothers and sisters and injured many more. Make no mistake: this was an attack on our community; it was an attack on our sacred and safe space; it was an attack on our identity. The mourning and tears continue, and show no signs of slowing. We pray for the families and friends of those souls we lost. Our hearts are broken, but not our spirits.

“That’s why we have decided to continue with our plans to host Levity & Justice for All on Thursday night at the historic Town Hall in New York City. As one of the first large events scheduled to celebrate New York City Pride, we feel it is important to stand with Orlando, and with our LGBTQ family across America. We will show that love is more powerful than hate; we will demonstrate that laughter can fight back against bigotry. Our community will come together in the shadow of pain, as we have been forced to do before, in order to celebrate who we are and who we love. We have increased security at the event as a precaution, and we will work with New York City law enforcement to ensure a safe environment for everyone attending Levity & Justice for All. With open arms, we invite all those in our family – LGBTQ Americans and our allies – who are seeking a community and an opportunity to channel our anger and sadness into a moment of laughter and love to join us.”

LPAC builds the political power of lesbians and queer women by electing candidates who champion LGBTQ rights, women’s equality, and social justice. Founded in 2012 by experienced leaders in feminist, LGBTQ and social justice movements, LPAC has raised $2.1 million dollars from more than 1,500 donors across 48 states and the District of Columbia. LPAC has invested $900,000 directly in more than 40 races and independent expenditure campaigns throughout the country, and used the balance of its funds to organize, convene, network and build the political power of LGBTQ women. Learn more at www.teamlpac.com.